Device for the transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides a device for the transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve. The device comprises an elongated symmetrical support comprising at least one electrode pair, said support being suitable to be applied on the forehead of a person&#39;s face in the supraorbital region thereby covering the afferent paths of the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve; each electrode pair being in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel, said conductive gel covering at least partially one surface of the support for attaching said support to the forehead and being applied to two lateral zones with the exception of an insulating central zone, whereby each lateral zone comprises one electrode of the electrode pair; at least one electric circuit for supplying to the electrode pair electric pulses having a predefined intensity, and at least one measurement means for measuring the intensity of the supplied pulses, said measurement means being connected to the electric circuit.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve. More in particular, the invention pertains to a non-invasive device and a non-invasive method for transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve and the treatment of diseases such as migraines, headaches and fibromyalgia.

BACKGROUND

One known analgesic electrotherapy technique is transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, commonly called TENS. The latter consists in exciting sensitive afferent paths by means of electrodes placed on the skin, so as to reduce or block the pain. This technique is widely known and regularly used to combat various types of pain.

Most migraines and tension headaches spread on to the surface of the front half of the cranium. The afferent path of this pain is located in the trigeminal nerve (Trigeminus nervus), shown in FIG. 1, which has three branches: the ophthalmic branch 1, the maxillary branch 4 and the mandibular branch 5. The afferent path of the above-mentioned pain is more precisely the upper branch of the trigeminal nerve 1 which is also called Willis' ophthalmic nerve. This nerve divides into two branches on the forehead: the internal frontal (or supratrochlear) nerve 2 and the external frontal (or supraorbital) nerve 3.

It is known that the application of analgesic electrotherapy of a TENS type to the supraorbital and supratrochlear nerves allows one to considerably reduce or even completely the pain of most migraines and tension headaches.

US2009210028 discloses a device for the electrotherapeutic treatment of headaches, comprising an elongated symmetrical element to support two contact electrodes to be applied transversally to the upper part of the face in the supraorbital region. Each of the electrodes being in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel applied to the surface of the support intended to be applied to the skin of the face. Said conductive gel is applied to two given lateral zones mainly covering the entire support with the exception of an insulating central zone. The device also comprises an electric circuit for supplying said electrodes by low voltage electric pulses. The electrode support has a shape and size selected so as to allow, independently from the subject, the excitation of afferent paths of the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve. The electric circuit comprises a programmable signal generator suitable for creating pulses of a duration of between 150 and 450 microseconds with a maximum increase in intensity of 0 to 20 milliamperes (mA) at a rate of less than or equal to 40 microamperes per second and with a step up in intensity not exceeding 50 microamperes.

Document WO 2006/051370 discloses an electrotherapy device applied in particular to the treatment of migraines and other headaches. The device comprises at least one electrode for the application of a treatment current and a means of control. The latter comprises at least a means of activation for initiating the provision of a predetermined current profile in its various parameters, in particular the intensity, and a means of stabilization which, when it is activated, causes a modification of said current profile by restricting the intensity of the current to its value at the moment of activation of said means of stabilization. This would therefore limit the risk of too intense a pain for the patient during the application of a predetermined current profile thanks to the means of stabilization that the patient himself can activate.

The devices and methods of the prior art are devoid of systems and/or mechanisms allowing monitoring of the intensity of the stimulations. If the device is dysfunctional, the user is not notified and might continue using it believing it is functional. In this case, the user will be disappointed as the desired goal will not be reached. Another disadvantage of the devices of the prior art resides in the fact that the user and/or the health professional is not aware of the efficiency neither of the treatment nor of the compliance to the treatment.

The aim of the present invention is to provide a solution to overcome at least part of the above mentioned disadvantages. The invention thereto aims to provide a method and a device as described by the description below and by the claims.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides device for the transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve. The device comprises:—an elongated symmetrical support comprising at least one electrode pair, said support is suitable to be applied on the forehead of a person's or a user's face in the supraorbital region thereby covering the afferent paths of the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve; each electrode pair is in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel, said conductive gel covers at least partially one surface of the support for attaching said support to the forehead and is applied to two lateral zones with the exception of an insulating central zone, whereby each lateral zone comprises one electrode of the electrode pair;—at least one electric circuit for supplying to the electrode pair electric pulses having a predefined intensity, and at least one measurement means for measuring the intensity of the supplied pulses, said measurement means is connected to the electric circuit.

The present invention further relates to a method for the transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve, comprising the following steps: attaching an electrode support comprising at least one electrode pair on a person's or a user's forehead in the supraorbital region thereby covering the afferent paths of the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve; each electrode pair is in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel which is covering at least partially one surface of the support thereby attaching said support to the forehead; generating and supplying to the electrode pair electric pulses having a predefined intensity, and measuring the intensity of the pulses supplied to said electrodes pair.

The device according to any embodiment of the invention is for use in the electrotherapeutic treatment of headaches and/or for use in the electrotherapeutic treatment of fibromyalgia.

The invention also provides a method for the electrotherapeutic treatment of headaches comprising the following steps: attaching an electrode support comprising at least one electrode pair on a person's forehead in the supraorbital region thereby covering the afferent paths of the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve; each electrode pair is in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel which is covering to at least partially one surface of the support thereby attaching said support to the forehead; generating and supplying to the electrode pair electric pulses having a predefined intensity, and measuring the intensity of the pulses supplied to said electrodes pair.

The invention further provides a method for the electrotherapeutic treatment of fybromyalgia comprising the following steps: attaching an electrode support comprising at least one electrode pair on a person's forehead in the supraorbital region thereby covering the afferent paths of the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve; each electrode pair is in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel which is covering to at least partially one surface of the support thereby attaching said support to the forehead; generating and supplying to the electrode pair electric pulses having a predefined intensity, and measuring the intensity of the pulses supplied to said electrodes pair.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a kit comprising a device as described above and a leaflet with instructions to the user.

Further embodiments of the invention are disclosed hereinafter, in the claims and in the accompanying figures.

The invention provides several improvements and advantages compared to the systems and devices of the prior art. The functioning of the device is automatically stopped if the pulses intensity measured by the measurement means is different from the predetermined intensity. This allows a continued monitoring of the pulses intensity, allows energy saving and provides a highly efficient working device. In addition, the device and/or the method of the invention provide an auditory signal whenever the functioning of the device is automatically stopped thereby alerting the user who can check for problems with the device and/or request help from at least one professional. The system and/or the method further record different parameters of the use of the device as well as parameters of the used pulses. This allows a better evaluation of the efficiency of the treatment as a health professional will be able to analyze the physical condition of the user in function of the saved parameters. The health professional will also be able to adapt the using parameters according to the evolution of the user's treatment. Another advantage of the device is to provide the user with a real-time biofeedback concerning the effectiveness of the treatment. The user can see and/or hear that he/she is relaxing by an auditory and/or a visual signal. This provides comfort to the user but also allows him/her to contact a health professional if he/she realizes that the device and/or the parameters of the pulses are no longer fit for him.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of the trigeminal nerve and its different branches as well as the corresponding position of the electrode according to the present invention on the upper part of the face.

FIG. 2 shows a schematic view of the detail of the shape of the electrode according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of the electric circuit used in the device and/or the method of the invention

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a device and a method for the transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, term definitions are included to better appreciate the teaching of the present invention.

As used herein, the following terms have the following meanings:

“A”, “an”, and “the” as used herein refers to both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. By way of example, “a compartment” refers to one or more than one compartment.

“About” as used herein referring to a measurable value such as a parameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, is meant to encompass variations of +/−20% or less, preferably +/−10% or less, more preferably +/−5% or less, even more preferably +/−1% or less, and still more preferably +/−0.1% or less of and from the specified value, in so far such variations are appropriate to perform in the disclosed invention. However, it is to be understood that the value to which the modifier “about” refers is itself also specifically disclosed.

“Comprise,” “comprising,” and “comprises” and “comprised of” as used herein are synonymous with “include”, “including”, “includes” or “contain”, “containing”, “contains” and are inclusive or open-ended terms that specifies the presence of what follows e.g. component and do not exclude or preclude the presence of additional, non-recited components, features, element, members, steps, known in the art or disclosed therein.

The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range, as well as the recited endpoints.

In a first aspect, the present invention provides a device for the transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve. The device comprises:

an elongated symmetrical support 10 comprising at least one electrode pair 11, 12. Said support is suitable to be applied on the forehead of a person's face in the supraorbital region 20 thereby covering the afferent paths of the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve. Each electrode pair 11, 12 is in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel, said conductive gel covers at least partially one surface of the support 10 for attaching said support to the forehead and is applied to two lateral zones 13, 14 with the exception of an insulating central zone, whereby each lateral zone comprises one electrode of the electrode pair,

at least one electric circuit for supplying to the electrode pair electric pulses having a predefined intensity 11, 12, and

at least one measurement means for measuring the intensity of the supplied pulses, said measurement means is connected to the electric circuit. The measurement means measures the intensity of the pulses in a continuous or a discontinuous mode. By discontinuous mode, reference is made to measurements separated by a predetermined time period which varies from 1 second to 2 minutes.

Preferably, the predefined intensity of the pulses is of from 1 to 35 mA, from 5 to 30 mA, from 10 to 25 mA and from 13 to 20 mA. More preferably, the predefined intensity is about 16 mA.

In a preferred embodiment, the measurement means is connected to an auditory signal control means which controls an auditory signal providing means for creating an auditory signal when the measured intensity is different from the predefined intensity. The auditory signal control means might be an electric circuit which can be part of and/or connected to the electric circuit supplying electric pulses to the electrode pair. Said measurement means, auditory signal control means and auditory signal providing means are preferably built in the device.

The device thereby allows a continuous monitoring of the pulses intensity whenever the device is being used. If the measured pulse intensity is outside the predefined intensity, the electric circuit stops supplying electric pulses to the electrode pair and/or the auditory signal providing means is activated thereby creating an auditory signal notifying the user that device is not working. The continuous measurement of the pulses intensity allows detecting any connection problems as the current will not be able to flow anymore and there will be no pulses delivered to the user's head.

In a preferred embodiment, the measurement means comprises at least one sensor for measuring the intensity of the pulses. The measurement means can be any other means for measuring pulses intensity which are known to the person skilled in the art.

In a preferred embodiment, the self-adhesive conductive gel covers at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, even more preferably at least 40% and most preferably at least 50% of the support surface. The gel preferably covers at most 99%, preferably 90%, more preferably 80%, even more preferably 70% and most preferably 60% of the support surface of the device. Preferably, the support areas located at the extremity of the device in the direction of the lateral extension L are devoid of gel. Said areas represent each 1 to 20%, preferably 5 to 15%, more preferably 10% of the support surface. This allows the user to easily remove the device from his/her forehead after use without being in touch with the conductive gel. This increases the heath security level for the user.

In a preferred embodiment, the device is built in such a way that the stimulation parameters can be adapted by the user. This can be achieved by providing at least one button and/or at least one screen on the outer surface of the device through which the user can adapt said parameters. The pulse-width, the frequency and the profile of the intensity (slope, maximum intensity reached and duration of the session) can be independently addressed, given that they stay within the accepted range which are respectively: 1 Hz to 250 Hz, 2 μs to 500 μs, 1 mA to 25 mA. The user can increase or decrease the pulses intensity thereby defining a stimulation slope. Said slope will be automatically recorded by the device for further use during next sessions. The stimulation slope will saved by the device until it is modified again by the user.

In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises at least one monitoring means for monitoring and/or recording, during each use of the device, a plurality of parameters. Said monitoring means is connected to the electric circuit and is provided with at least one sensor and/or at least one storage means for storing the monitored and/or the recorded parameters. The storage means may be any volatile (e.g. RAM) or non volatile (e.g. Flash FRAM) memories. In a preferred embodiment, the parameters are selected from the list comprising: the number of treatment sessions performed by the device, the total time of treatment sessions, the maximum pulse intensity used throughout all the sessions, the frequently used pulse intensity throughout all the sessions, the total charge transferred to the user throughout all the sessions, for each session the start time, and the stop time of the session, the maximum intensity reached during one session, if an interruption occurred whether it was a desired or an accidental interruption, the total charge transferred during the session, the intensity at multiple moment during one session or any combination thereof.

Said parameters are obtainable by the user and/or a health professional such as a doctor. In a preferred embodiment, said parameters are stored at the end of each session. By session, reference is made to the time during which the device is being used without interruption. The device may also be connected to a computer thereby continuously monitoring, in real time, the mentioned parameters during the use of the device. The monitoring of the parameters may be also discontinuous during one session. The connection between the device and the computer further allows adapting the treatment such as by reprogramming the stimulation parameters.

The collected and/or saved parameters allow evaluation of the compliance to the treatment. This information is highly relevant for the success of the treatment. It also allows the health professional to provide more adapted advice to the user based on the collected parameters and/or on the stage of the treatment.

In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises at least one biofeedback means for recording the physical response of the person to the supplied pulses. Said biofeedback means records the reaction of the head muscles, and in particular the action potential of said muscles, to the electric pulses. The biofeedback means of the device can also record the electrical activity of the muscle in the absence of pulses supply. This measurement provides a biofeedback to the user informing him/her about the level of his/her relaxation.

In a preferred embodiment, the biofeedback means is connected to the electrode of the device and comprises at least one conversion means for converting the recorded physical responses into a biofeedback signal which is perceived by the user. Preferably, said biofeedback signal is a visual and/or an auditory signal which is perceivable by the user.

Preferably, the visual signal originates from at least one light emitting means such as a light emitting diode (LED) or any other means known to the person skilled in the art. The light emitting means is positioned on the device such that the emitted visual signal is perceivable by the user. The auditory signal comprises at least one audible beep. Preferably, the frequency of the beeps and/or of the light emission is inversely proportional to the physical response, i.e. to the potential action of the head's muscle. This provides the user with a real time biofeedback concerning the effectiveness of the treatment and/or information relative to his/her relaxation state. The user can see and/or hear that he/she is relaxing as the beeps and/or the light emission increase in interval. The user follows his/her relaxation state in the absence or presence of any stimulation/pulses.

The device according to the invention is shown in FIG. 2. The elongated symmetrical element 10 comprises two contact electrodes 11, 12 to be applied transversally on the upper part of the face, in the supraorbital region 20. Each of the electrodes 11, 12 being in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel applied to the surface of the support. Said conductive gel is applied to two given lateral zones 13, 14, at least partially covering the support 10, with the exception of an insulating central zone (not shown). The device also contains an electric circuit for supplying said electrodes 11, 12 by means of low-voltage electric pulses.

According to the invention, the electrode support 10 has a shape and size selected so as to allow, independently from the subject, the excitation of the afferent paths of the supratrochlear 2 and supraorbital 3 nerves of the ophthalmic branch 1 of the trigeminal nerve.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the electrode support has a central part of height H1 which is higher than the height H2 of each of the outer parts, the upper ends of the two outer parts being at a level slightly below the level of the central part, once the support is correctly positioned on the face.

Preferably, the electrode support has in terms of dimensions: a length or lateral extension L of between 70 and 115 mm; a height of the central part H1 of between 15 and 50 mm; and a height of each of the outer parts H2 of between 5 and 20 mm. More preferably, the length L has a value of about 95 mm; the height of the central part H1 has a value of about 30 mm; the height of each of the outer parts H2 has a value of about 10 mm.

In a preferred embodiment, the electrode according to the invention is designed both to be effective and to limit pain. To be effective, it must allow the excitation of the right and left supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of all patients regardless of the circumference of their cranium. To limit the pain, it must have the smallest possible surface area so as to reduce the excitation of the nerve fibres that sense pain (nociceptive). The general shape of the electrode 10 is shown schematically in FIG. 2. It is transversally elongated, symmetrical and has a central height higher than the height of the two ends of the electrode.

The dimensions of the electrode 10 are: a length L of between 70 and 115 mm with an optimum value of 95 mm; a height of the central part H1 of between 15 and 50 mm with an optimum value of 30 mm; a height of the outer part H2 of between 5 and 20 mm with an optimum value of 10 mm. All other shapes and/or size that the person skilled in the art might devise are either ineffective since they do not allow the afferent paths of the target nerves (left and right supraorbital and supratrochlear) to be excited or they generate additional pain.

An embodiment of the electric circuit used in the device and/or the method of the invention is shown in FIG. 3. In said figure, PWR refers to power supply output, SW refers to key press button input, BUZZ refers to buzzer driver output, PWM refers to high voltage driver output, HV refers to high voltage input measurement, POS refers to positive pulse current driver output, NEG refers to negative pulse current driver output, LOAD refers to pulse current measurement, OUT1 refers to positive stimulation connection and OUT2 refers to negative stimulation connection.

In a preferred embodiment, the electric circuit comprises at least one Micro Controller Unit 20 (MCU) including at least one FLASH and/or RAM memory and at least one bi-directional digital input/output. The MCU 20 further comprises an Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) and one or more timers. Preferably, the MCU 20 operates at a regulated voltage of around 2.4 volt. The electric circuit has very low power consumption with low standby current appropriate for battery-powered device. Preferably, the MCU 20 comprises a main clock which is internally calibrated thereby avoiding external glue components. Optionally, the electric circuit comprises two alkaline LR03-AAA batteries 21 suitable for powering the device. Other power sources can be used, but will be referred to hereafter as ‘batteries’. Preferably, said batteries are easily introduced and removed to and from the electric circuit. A buzzer 26 might be connected to the MCU of the circuit, said buzzer provides an auditory signal when instructed by the device. The measurement means may be software connected to the MCU. The connection uses input ports to a circuitry attached to the contacts that connect the electrode to the MCU. In a preferred embodiment, the MCU measures the intensity of the supplied pulses and controls the auditory signal control means and thereby the auditory signal itself.

In a preferred embodiment, the electric circuit comprises a programmable signal generator which is suitable for generating pulses of a duration of between 150 and 450 microseconds with a maximum increase in intensity from 0 to 20 mA at a rate of less than or equal to 40 microamperes per second and with a step up in intensity not exceeding 50 microamperes. Preferably, the duration of the pulses is about 250 microseconds. Preferably, the step up in intensity is about 30 microamperes.

In a further preferred embodiment, the programmable signal generator comprises a high voltage generator (HVG) 22 and a current pulse generator 23 (CPG). Said HVG is adapted to convert the power supplied by the batteries to an electrical signal of high voltage. Said high voltage may reach up to 100V or any value below. This is needed to produce an electric current sufficient to stimulate the nerves through the skin. The HVG 22 is capable of supplying said electrical signal of high voltage to the CPG 23 which is capable of converting these electrical signals of high voltage to electrical pulses of a desired duration and intensity. Preferably, the HVG 22 is adapted to be electronically steered by the MCU 20. More preferably, the MCU 20 is suitable for monitoring the electrical signal of high voltage generated by the HVG 22, and for continuously adjusting the high voltage generator. This is possible by a connection from the HVG 22 to the ADC of the MCU 20, thereby allowing the MCU 20 to compare the value of the desired electrical signal and the value of the generated electrical signal.

The CPG 23 is suitable for generating pulses. Preferably said CPG 23 comprises at least two transistors. The MCU 20 is electrically connected to the base terminal of each of the two transistors in order to activate one or both transistors. This allows the current of flow either from OUT1 to OUT2 or from OUT2 to OUT1. The current flows from the collector to the emitter of the transistor then to the electrode. The MCU is also suitable for electrically steering the CPG 23 by supplying voltage to one or to both transistors. The HVG 22 is electrically connected to the collector terminal of one or both transistors. Preferably, an emitter terminal is electrically connected to one of the electrodes. The use of the transistor in a switched-mode power supply (SMPS) allows the transistor to continually switch between low-dissipation full-on and full-off states, while spending very little time in the high dissipation transitions, which both minimizes wasted energy and allows for the generation of abrupt pulses. The timers of the MCU are suitable for controlling the pulse width and the intervals between pulses. Preferably a feedback signal is provided by the CPG to the MCU, whereby the MCU is adapted to measure said feedback signal. Said signal can be digital or analog. An analog signal can be converted to a digital by the ADC of the MCU and compared to the value of the desired pulse. Should deviations be found between the desired pulse and the actual pulse, (i) adjustments can be made by the MCU in order to provide the desired pulses or (ii) the electric circuit will automatically stop functioning.

The electric circuit comprises at least one control means such as a control button 25. Said button is reachable by the user. The control means is suitable for controlling the MCU 20. By operating the control means 25, a user can turn the MCU on or off and/or choose operating settings of the device. Said control means can be a button, a switch, a lever or any other elements. The control means 25 powers a supply voltage regulator 24 to provide the MCU with power. Furthermore, said control means 25 is electrically connected to the MCU for control. The supply voltage regulator 24 can be powered by batteries. A feedback system electrically connects the MCU to the supply voltage regulator 24 to continue powering the supply voltage regulator 24, thereby allowing the supply voltage generator to provide power from the batteries to the MCU unless the MCU decides to stop itself or is instructed otherwise by the button through the electrical connection from the button to the MCU.

In a preferred embodiment, the electric circuit is integrated into an apparatus; said apparatus is mechanically connectable to the elongated symmetrical support 10. Said support comprises at least one protruding pin for ensuring the mechanical connection with the apparatus. The pin is preferably positioned in the insulating central zone of the elongated symmetrical support. The apparatus comprises at least two protruding contact bands or pads. Said bands are preferably protruding from the electric circuit and are intended to fit and/or contact each electrode of the electrode pair.

Between both contact bands, the central part of the apparatus is hollowed and provided with a recess in which the pin of the elongated symmetrical support fits. This recess is wide at its bottom (proximal to the nose) and narrow at its top (distal from the nose), which allows the user to easily fit and connect the apparatus with the symmetrical support. As an advantage, the pin comprises a short stem ending in a bulging round head that allows it to be secured in the narrow part of the recess of the apparatus.

Preferably, the apparatus is designed similarly to a spectacle frame that rests on the nose at the front and on the ears at the back by means of two suitable arms. The electronic circuit and/or any the supply such as batteries may be located in a hollow part of the device. The stability of the apparatus in the shape of a spectacle frame is provided by three points: both arms that rest on the ears and the electrode stuck to the glabella. This differs from a traditional spectacle frame whose third point of stability is provided by the bridge of the nose or by the plates that rest on the nose. This latter system does not suit the device of the invention since the variations from one person to the other in terms of the size and shape of the nose do not always allow the contact pads to be precisely positioned on the conductive surfaces of the electrode.

In a preferred embodiment, the electric circuit is integrated into an apparatus; said apparatus is magnetically connectable to the elongated symmetrical support (10). The elongated symmetrical support has preferably the shape of a flat support element provided on one side with a conductive self-adhesive gel for the adhesion to the skin. The apparatus is capable of generating or receiving electrical currents respectively to or from the body, through the electrodes. Preferably, the apparatus is connectable to the electrode support using permanent magnets provided on the apparatus. The symmetrical support comprises two circular magnetisable zones arranged along the longitudinal direction of the electrode. The respective centers of the magnetisable zones have the same spacing as the respective centers of the two magnets of the apparatus thereby allowing magnetic coupling between the symmetrical support and the apparatus.

Preferably, the magnets are electrically conductive or coated with an electrical conductor. The magnets are capable of cooperating with a magnetisable metal zone located on the side of each of the electrode pair opposite the side intended to be in contact with the skin. This ensures the flow of the electrical current directly from the apparatus to the electrode pair and vice versa.

In a preferred embodiment, the symmetrical support comprises at least one, preferably at least two magnetizable metals positioned on top of the gel layer. A carbon layer is applied above said gel layer. Preferably, on top of the carbon layer, a silver layer is positioned.

Preferably, on top of said silver layer, a layer of cotton or polyurethane is positioned. The layer of cotton or polyurethane comprises conductive areas allowing the electric connection between the magnets of the apparatus and the silver layer. The pieces of magnetizable metal are aligned with the rectangular window.

In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus has a casing that is circular, triangular, square, rectangular or quadrilateral. The apparatus is substantially flat and has a height of maximum 1.5 cm, preferably maximum 1 cm. By height reference is made to the distance separating the apparatus most proximal point to the skin from the apparatus most distal point from the skin when said apparatus is in use. The weight of said apparatus is a least 1 gr, preferably at least 2 gr, more preferably at least 3 gr, most preferably at most 5 gr and at most 20 gr, preferably at most 15 gr, more preferably at most 12 gr, most preferably at most 10 gr.

Preferably, the magnetisable metal zone consists of a ferromagnetic surface. Said surface contains iron, cobalt, nickel, one of their alloys or any combination thereof.

Preferably, each permanent magnet is a rare earth alloy magnet. Said rare earth alloy magnet is preferably a neodymium-iron-boron magnet or a samarium-cobalt magnet. The rare earth alloy magnet is preferably coated with a layer of nickel, copper, zinc, chromium, gold, silver, epoxy resin or any combination thereof. The rare earth alloy magnet has a maximum energy product BHmax comprised between 30 and 52 MGOe.

In a preferred embodiment, each permanent magnet is cylindrical with an axis perpendicular to the surface of the electronic apparatus intended to come into contact with the electrode.

To excite nerve fibres, TENS analgesic electrotherapy normally uses rectangular pulses, described in the literature as the most suitable. The prior art discloses that the duration of the rectangular pulses must be equal or close to the chronaxy of the target nerve fibres, that is, the nerve fibres that must be excited by the pulse. Chronaxy is the minimum duration of application of the electric current with double the minimum intensity (or rheobasis) required to cause excitation. This way the corresponding electrical energy provided to the tissues is minimal. The top-of-the-range material used by the main manufacturer (CefarCompex) of TENS devices also uses a sensor system to measure the chronaxy of the nerve fibres and then to regulate the duration of the rectangular pulses to make them equal to the chronaxy measured. The fact that the electrical energy transmitted is minimal when the duration of the pulse is regulated to a value equal to the chronaxy of the target nerve fibres is described in this way in CefarCompex's manual of theoretical electrotherapy.

The target nerve fibres are, in the present invention, the sensory afferent paths of the supraorbital and supratrochlear nerves. The chronaxy of these sensory fibres of type Aβ is between 30 and 100 μs (microseconds) with an average of 50 μs. It is for this reason that most TENS analgesic electrotherapy devices use rectangular pulses with a duration of between 30 and 100 μs and normally of about 50 μs. The Applicant's laboratory tests have established that these pulse durations were very painful for the patient and it has been discovered that, contrary to what was expected, much longer pulses were much more comfortable for a reason yet unknown.

According to the present invention, suitable pulse durations are between 150 and 450 μs with an optimum of 250 μs, that is to say 3 to 9 times longer than the pulse durations usually used in TENS analgesic electrotherapy devices in accordance with the state of the art.

It is known that the intensity that must be achieved to effectively excite the sensory afferent paths of the supraorbital and supratrochlear nerves lies between 8 and 18 mA. The regulation of the intensities is normally done with TENS devices in a few minutes. In the region that interests us, this increase in intensity is painful, which makes it difficult, indeed impossible to reach the effective intensity of treatment located between 8 and 18 mA.

The nervous system gets used to a given sensation by modifying its threshold of pain perception. This is the mechanism of tolerance. By making use of the phenomenon of tolerance, it is possible to very gradually increase the intensity without producing pain. It is a matter of letting the nervous system raise its threshold of pain perception before increasing the intensity very slightly and in a manner that remains below the pain threshold. By doing this, the nervous system modifies its pain perception threshold.

The above-mentioned laboratory tests have established that the gradient of the increase in intensity that is able to prevent a painful sensation by exploiting the mechanism of tolerance must be below a value of 17 mA in 7 minutes, that is to say a speed of increase in intensity equal to or less than 40 μA/s (microamperes per second). This is true as long as the step up in intensity is also adjusted (see below). Steeper gradients of increase in intensity than that mentioned above will cause pain whereas more gradual gradients will be tolerated.

The increase in intensity is produced in steps. The step depends on the electronic system that generates the pulses. If the step up in intensity from one pulse to the next is too high, the subject perceives this sudden increase in intensity and therefore pain.

The above-mentioned laboratory tests have established that the value of the step up in intensity from one pulse to the next must not exceed 50 μA, with an optimum of 30 μA. When the step up in intensity from one pulse to the next is less than 50 μA, the subject does not perceive a sudden increase in intensity and does not feel pain.

In a second aspect, the present invention provides a method for the transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve. The method comprises the following steps:

attaching an electrode support comprising at least one electrode pair on a person's forehead in the supraorbital region thereby covering the afferent paths of the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve; each electrode pair is in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel which is covering to at least partially one surface of the support thereby attaching said support to the forehead,

generating and supplying to the electrode pair electric pulses having a predefined intensity, and

measuring the intensity of the pulses supplied to said electrodes pair. Preferably, the predefined intensity of the pulses is of from 1 to 35 mA, from 5 to 30 mA, from 10 to 25 mA and from 13 to 20 mA. More preferably, the predefined intensity is about 16 mA.

The device according to any embodiment described above may be used for the method of the invention. It is to be understood that any embodiment described for the method is also applicable for the device and vice versa.

In a preferred embodiment, the electrode support is self-adhesive. Preferably, the electric pulses are generated by a programmable signal generator and the intensity of the electric pulses is measured by a measurement means provided in the device used for the treatment.

In a preferred embodiment, an auditory signal is produced when the measured pulse intensity is different from the predefined intensity. In this case, electric pulses are no longer generated and supplied to the electrode pair. This is advantageous as it ensures a continuous monitoring of the pulses intensity whenever the device is being used. If the measured pulse intensity is outside the predefined intensity, the electric circuit stops supplying electric pulses to the electrode pair and/or the auditory signal providing means is activated thereby creating an auditory signal notifying the user that device is not working. The continuous measurement of the pulses intensity allows detecting any connection problems as the current will not be able to flow anymore and there will be no pulses delivered to the user's head.

In a preferred embodiment, the measurement of the intensity of the pulses is performed in a continuous mode or in a discontinuous mode. By discontinuous mode, reference is made to measurements separated by a predetermined time period which varies from 1 second to 2 minutes.

In a preferred embodiment, the method further comprises the step of recording a plurality of parameters during each use of the device. Said parameters are recorded using at least one monitoring means incorporated in the used device. The parameters are selected from the list comprising: the number of treatment sessions performed by the device, the total time of treatment sessions, the maximum pulse intensity used throughout all the sessions, the frequently used pulse intensity throughout all the sessions, the total charge transferred to the person throughout all the sessions or any combination thereof.

Said parameters may be stored at the end of each session. By session, reference is made to the time during which the device is being used without interruption. The device may also be connected to a computer thereby continuously monitoring and/or recording, in real time, the mentioned parameters during each session. The monitoring and/or the recording of the parameters may be discontinuous during one session. This means that the parameters are monitored and/or recorded repetitively with a time frame separating two consecutive monitoring and/or recording. The connection between the device and the computer further allows adapting the treatment such as by reprogramming the stimulation parameters. Adaptation might be performed in real time by the user or the heath professional. Said adaptation might also be performed prior the start of a session and after analyzing the parameters recorded during previous sessions.

The collected and/or saved parameters allow evaluation of the compliance to the treatment. This information is highly relevant for the success of the treatment. It also allows the health professional to provide more adapted advice to the user based on the collected parameters and/or on the stage of the treatment.

In a preferred embodiment, the method further comprises the step of recording the physical responses of the person to the supplied pulses thereby providing biofeedback to the user.

The physical responses might be recorded using at least one biofeedback means incorporated in the used device and/or at least one electrode suitable to be placed on the user's forehead. The biofeedback means and the electrode are connectable to each other. By physical responses, reference is made to the reaction of the head muscles, and in particular the action potential of said muscles, to the supplied electric pulses.

Preferably, the recorded physical responses are converted into a biofeedback signal. Said signal is preferably a visual signal and/or an auditory signal perceivable by the user thereby providing information on the treatment evolution. This might be achieved by providing the biofeedback means with at least one conversion means for converting the recorded physical responses into a biofeedback signal which is perceived by the user.

The physical responses are continuously or periodically recorded. Periodically means that the physical responses are recorded in a discontinuous manner whereby a time frame separates two consecutive recordings.

Suitable light emitting means such as a light emitting diode (LED) and/or auditory emission means may be provided to the used device. The auditory signal might comprise at least one audible beep. Preferably, the frequency of the beeps and/or of the light emission is inversely proportional to the physical response, i.e. to the potential action of the head's muscle. This provides the user with a real time biofeedback concerning the effectiveness of the treatment.

The user can see and/or hear that he/she is relaxing as the beeps and/or the light emission increase in interval.

The invention further provides a method for the electrotherapeutic treatment of headaches, such as tension headaches and migraines, comprising the following steps:

attaching an electrode support comprising at least one electrode pair on a person's forehead in the supraorbital region thereby covering the afferent paths of the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve; each electrode pair is in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel which is covering to at least partially one surface of the support thereby attaching said support to the forehead,

generating and supplying to the electrode pair electric pulses having a predefined intensity, and

measuring the intensity of the pulses supplied to said electrodes pair.

It is to be understood that all the embodiments and/or steps described above for the method for the transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve are also applicable and/or part of the method for electrotherapeutic treatment of headaches.

Preferably, the electric pulses are rectangular and have a duration of between 150 and 450 microseconds and preferably 250 microseconds, with a maximum increase in intensity of 0 to 20 mA, at a rate of less than or equal to 40 microamperes per second, said increase in intensity being produced by a step up not exceeding 50 microamperes and preferably 30 microamperes; said electrical signal is applied to the electrodes to treat tension headaches and migraines.

The invention also provides a method for the electrotherapeutic treatment of fibromyalgia comprising the following steps:

attaching an electrode support comprising at least one electrode pair on a person's forehead in the supraorbital region thereby covering the afferent paths of the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve; each electrode pair is in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel which is covering to at least partially one surface of the support thereby attaching said support to the forehead,

generating and supplying to the electrode pair electric pulses having a predefined intensity, and

measuring the intensity of the pulses supplied to said electrodes pair.

It is to be understood that all the embodiments and/or steps described above for the method for the transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve are also applicable and/or part of the method for electrotherapeutic treatment of fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a medical condition characterized by chronic widespread pain and allodynia. Up to date, three classes of drugs are used for the treatment of fibromyalgia: tricyclics, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and gabapentinoids. These drugs are active on the central nervous system (CNS). However, several side effects and low efficacy have been recorded for the use of these drugs (a meaningful improvement has been achieved for only about a third of individuals). There is therefore an important need for a treatment which is active on the CNS, effective for treating fibromyalgia while considerably lowering and/or without any side effect.

The present invention provides easy and simple external neurostimulation of the trigeminal nerve (e-TNS) for the treatment of fibromyalgia. In a preferred embodiment, the pulses used for the stimulation are rectangular biphasic pulses having a width between 10 and 1000 μs, preferably between 20 and 800 μs, more preferably between 30 and 600 μs, even more preferably between 50 and 500 μs, most preferably about 250 μs.

In a preferred embodiment, the pulses frequency is between 10 and 300 Hz, preferably between 20 and 200 Hz, more preferably between 30 and 150 Hz, most preferably about 120 Hz.

In a preferred embodiment, the intensity of the pulses is between 1 and 50 mA, preferably between 2 and 40 mA, more preferably between 3 and 30 mA, even more preferably between 4 and 28 mA, most preferably between 5 and 25 mA. Preferably, the intensity increases progressively with a slope less than 40 μA/sec.

A combination of electrotherapeutic treatment and drugs treatment is also provided by the present invention for the treatment of headaches or the treatment of fibromyalgia. Drugs known in the art may be combined with the electrotherapeutic treatment of the invention in a sequential and/or alternate and/or simultaneous mode.

In a preferred embodiment, the method and/or the device as described in any embodiment of the present invention are used for electrotherapeutic the treatment of neurological disorders including but not limited to migraine, tension, headaches, cluster headaches, hemicrania continua, SUCNT, chronic paroxystic hemicranias, trigeminal neuralgia, facial nerve disturbances, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, depression, cyclothymia, post-traumatic stress syndrome, post-concussion syndrome, coma, anxiety, tremor, aphasia, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), insomnia, sleep disorders, sleep apnea syndrome, hypersomnia, epilepsy, drop attacks, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Parkinson's disease, Alzeihmer's disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke and Cerebellar syndrome.

In a preferred embodiment, the method and/or the device of the present invention are used for the treatment of primary and secondary headaches, chronic or episodic including but not limited to migraine with and without aura, episodic migraine, chronic migraine, tension type headache, chronic daily headache, new daily persistent headache, medication overuse headaches, cluster headaches, occipital neuralgia, trigeminal neuralgia, hemicrania continua, post-traumatic headaches and post-concussion migraine. In a preferred embodiment, the method and/or the device of the present invention are used for the treatment of fibromyalgia.

The device according to any embodiment of the invention is used to prevent and/or treat headaches. The device may be used between headache episodes to prevent future headache attacks or episodes. The device may also be used during migraine attacks or headache episodes to stop the attack (abortive treatment) or to reduce the pain (analgesic). The device may as well be used after concussion or trauma or any medical disorder or event to prevent the aftermaths.

The device and/or the method according to any embodiment of the invention may be used alone for prevention and/or for abortive treatment. Said device and/or method can also be used in combination with preventive or abortive medications. In prevention treatments, the use of the device and/or method reinforces the prophylaxis action of the medication. In abortive or analgesic treatments, the use of the device and/or method reinforces the abortive or analgesic effect of the medication. In any of the aforementioned treatments, the use of the device and or method or allows the use of a lower dose of medication or a medication having less side effects compared to treatments wherein only medication is used.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a kit comprising a device as described above and a leaflet with instructions to the user.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments thereof, many modifications and alternations may be made by a person having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of this invention which is defined by the appended claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. Method for the transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve, comprising: attaching an electrode support comprising at least one electrode pair on a person's forehead in the supraorbital region, thereby covering the afferent paths of the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve, wherein each electrode pair is in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel, which is covering at least partially one surface of the support, thereby attaching said support to the forehead; generating and supplying to the at least one electrode pair electric pulses having a predefined intensity; and measuring the intensity of the pulses supplied to said at least one electrode pair, wherein an auditory signal is produced when the measured pulse intensity is different from the predefined intensity.
 2. Method according to claim 1, wherein electric pulses are no longer generated and supplied to the electrode pair when the measured pulse intensity is different from the predefined intensity.
 3. Method according to claim 1, wherein the measurement of the intensity of the pulses is performed in a continuous mode or in a discontinuous mode.
 4. Method according to claim 1, wherein the predefined intensity of the pulses is of from 1 to 35 mA.
 5. Method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of recording a plurality of parameters during each use of the device, wherein said parameters are selected from the group consisting of: the number of treatment sessions performed by the device, the total time of treatment sessions, the maximum pulse intensity used throughout all the sessions, the frequently used pulse intensity throughout all the sessions, the total charge transferred to the person throughout all the sessions and combinations thereof.
 6. Method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of recording the physical responses of the person to the supplied pulses.
 7. Method according to claim 6, wherein said recorded physical responses are converted into a visual signal and/or an auditory signal for providing information on the treatment evolution.
 8. Method according to claim 6, wherein the physical responses are continuously or periodically recorded.
 9. Method for the electrotherapeutic treatment of headaches comprising: attaching an electrode support comprising at least one electrode pair on a person's forehead in the supraorbital region thereby covering the afferent paths of the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve, wherein each electrode pair is in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel which is covering to at least partially one surface of the support thereby attaching said support to the forehead; generating and supplying to the at least one electrode pair electric pulses having a predefined intensity; and measuring the intensity of the pulses supplied to said at least one electrode pair wherein an auditory signal is produced when the measured pulse intensity is different from the predefined intensity.
 10. Method according to claim 9 wherein the pulses are rectangular biphasic pulses having a duration of between 150 and 450 microseconds with a maximum increase in intensity of 0 to 20 mA, at a rate of less than or equal to 40 microamperes per second, said increase in intensity being produced by a step up not exceeding 50 microamperes.
 11. Method for the electrotherapeutic treatment of fibromyalgia comprising the following steps: attaching an electrode support comprising at least one electrode pair on a person's forehead in the supraorbital region thereby covering the afferent paths of the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve, wherein each electrode pair is in contact with a self-adhesive conductive gel which is covering to at least partially one surface of the support thereby attaching said support to the forehead, generating and supplying to the electrode pair electric pulses having a predefined intensity, and measuring the intensity of the pulses supplied to said electrode pair, wherein an auditory signal is produced when the measured pulse intensity is different from the predefined intensity.
 12. Method according to claim 11 wherein the pulses are rectangular biphasic pulses having a width between 10 and 1000 μs.
 13. Method according to claim 11, wherein the pulse frequency is between 10 and 300 Hz.
 14. Method according to claim 11 wherein the intensity of the pulses is between 1 and 50 mA.
 15. Method according to claim 14, wherein the intensity increases progressively with a slope less than 40 μA/sec. 